Home » Students’ Rights and Responsibilities and Code of Conduct
John A. Logan College (JALC) is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment for all. Students have important rights, and in return, they are expected to uphold the policies, rules, and regulations of the College, as well as applicable local, state, and federal laws. Students are responsible not only for the intent of their behavior but also for the impact of their actions. The student conduct policies and processes are designed to provide educational and developmental opportunities while balancing individual rights with the well-being of the JALC community.
This Code of Conduct outlines:
By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, students contribute to a positive and thriving college environment where all can succeed.
Code of Coduct (PDF)As a member of the college community, students are entitled to certain rights that support their access to a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment. With these rights come responsibilities to uphold community standards, contribute positively to campus life, and respect the rights of others. The following outlines key rights and responsibilities related to important areas of student life.
| Student Rights | Student Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Students have the right to access quality education and academic resources that support their learning and development. | Students are expected to actively engage in their learning, attend classes, meet academic requirements, and seek support when needed. |
| Students have the right to learn in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and violence. | Students are responsible for treating others with respect and contributing to a welcoming and inclusive campus community. |
| Students have the right to express their thoughts, beliefs, and opinions respectfully and lawfully. | Students must exercise this right in ways that do not disrupt campus operations or infringe on the rights of others. |
| Students have the right to privacy in their educational records and personal information, as protected by laws such as FERPA. | Students are expected to respect the privacy of others and understand the limits of confidentiality. |
| Students have the right to take part in student organizations, activities, and campus governance. | Students are responsible for following institutional policies and contributing positively to campus life. |
| Students have the right to equitable access to programs, services, and facilities without discrimination. | Students are encouraged to actively seek out the programs, services, and support available to them, and to advocate for their needs if they encounter barriers to access. |
| Students have the right to be informed of the college’s policies, procedures, and expectations as outlined in the Student Handbook. | Students are responsible for reading, understanding, and following the guidelines in the Student Handbook, and for seeking clarification when needed. |
| Students have the right to a fair and impartial process when facing alleged violations of college policies. | Students are expected to cooperate with college officials and follow procedures outlined in the student conduct process. |
The Student Code of Conduct outlines the behavioral expectations for students and the processes for determining and addressing violations. The Provost (or designee) has the ultimate authority for the interpretation and execution of this Student Code of Conduct and the Assistant Provost of Student Affairs (or designee) has primary responsibility for resolving reports of student misconduct and may designate additional college officials to assist in the student conduct process. Functions of the Assistant Provost of Student Affairs include, but are not limited to:
Discipline may be imposed for conduct which occurs on college premises, in or out of the classroom setting, while using college technology, at off-campus instructional sites, during off-campus college-sponsored events and for off-campus conduct which materially and substantially interferes with the College’s operational and educational programs.
An individual who is enrolled in credit or non-credit courses at the college, regardless of full-time or part-time status, degree-seeking or non-degree status, or method of instruction (in-person, online, or hybrid) is considered a student and is expected to adhere to the behavioral standards established by JALC. This designation applies from the time of initial registration through the completion of their academic program or separation from the institution, including periods between terms and during official breaks.
Enrollment at JALC includes obligations regarding conduct both in and out of the classroom. Students are expected to conduct themselves appropriately within the College community. When a student or group of students, either on or off campus, fail to observe the general standards of conduct established by the College, the student(s) shall be liable to disciplinary action. Some of the matters which might result in disciplinary action are listed below.
Abuse of Student Conduct Process: Behavior including, but not limited to:
Academic and Other Acts of Dishonesty: JALC upholds the highest standards of academic integrity. Violations of academic integrity and related misconduct include, but are not limited to:
Alcohol, Drug, and Tobacco Policy Violations: JALC is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment that supports academic success and personal development. In compliance with federal and Illinois law, and in support of the College’s mission, alcohol, controlled substances, and tobacco or nicotine products are prohibited in the following contexts:
Disruption or Interference with College Operations: Intentionally or recklessly disrupting, obstructing, or interfering with college operations or the educational environment. This includes, but is not limited to, interference with teaching, studying, research, student conduct processes, college activities, administrative functions, public service functions (on or off campus), guest presentations, or emergency services.
Facilitation of Misconduct: Planning, facilitating, participating in, or supporting or encouraging an act of misconduct.
Gambling: The wagering of money or something of value on an event with an uncertain outcome, with the primary intent of winning money or material goods. This includes activities such as betting on sports events, playing poker, or participating in casino games.
Hazing: John A. Logan College prohibits hazing in all forms and complies with the Stop Campus Hazing Act through transparent reporting, prevention education, and enforcement policies outlined in the Annual Security Report and Campus Hazing Transparency Report. Hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a person, whether alone or with others, against another person or group, regardless of their willingness to participate. Hazing typically occurs during:
These actions qualify as hazing if they:
Misuse of Communication, Electronic Devices, and Technology: Students are prohibited from unauthorized or inappropriate use of communication devices, electronic equipment, and technology resources. This includes, but is not limited to:
Non-Compliance with Authority: Failure to comply with the direction of college officials or law enforcement officers acting in performance of their duties and/or failure to identify oneself to these persons when requested to do so.
Physical Abuse: Physical abuse includes physical contact which by its nature is provoking or endangers the health or safety of any person. This contact can be either through direct physical contact or through the use of any object.
Policy Violation: Violation of published college policies, rules, regulations, guidelines, or procedures.
Sexual Misconduct: Sexual harassment, sexual assault, or sexual misconduct which includes any unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors or any conduct of a sexual nature including, but not limited to:
For a detailed explanation of sexual misconduct policies and procedures, refer to Board Policy 4320 and Administrative Procedure 414 A–D.
Theft and Property Damage: Theft, tampering with, or possession of stolen property; and damaging, defacing, or deforming college property or the property of any member of the college community, on or off campus, without consent.
Unauthorized Building Occupancy: Unauthorized occupancy of the college facilities or building other than during hours of operation.
Verbal Abuse, Bullying, and Cyberbullying
Verbal abuse, bullying, and cyberbullying are strictly prohibited and include any written, verbal, or electronic behavior that targets an individual or group and causes harm, fear, or disruption to the learning environment. Prohibited behaviors include:
Violation of Disciplinary Terms: Any conduct which constitutes a violation of the terms of any discipline imposed in accordance with the Student Conduct process.
Weapons Possession: The use, possession, or carrying of weapons, including but not limited to, pistols, rifles, shotguns, air soft guns, paint ball guns, pellet guns, dangerous knives (with fixed blades three inches or more in length), ammunition, any stun device, or other dangerous weapons. Students who have authorization for concealed carry are not able to conceal carry a gun on campus, in accordance with state law. A Licensee may transport a firearm into an unrestricted parking area within a vehicle if the firearm and its ammunition remain locked in a case out of plain view within the parked vehicle.
This list is not all-inclusive and may be modified at any time by campus administration.
JALC upholds all federal, state, and local laws and expects students to do the same. When a student is arrested or cited on- or off-campus, the College may initiate its own disciplinary process, regardless of the outcome of any legal proceedings. This process may proceed before, during, or after any civil or criminal case and is not contingent on the resolution of those cases. Students should understand that legal violations may result in both criminal penalties and College-imposed sanctions, particularly when the behavior poses a threat to the safety or welfare of the campus community.
The following sanctions may be imposed upon any student who is found to have violated the Student Code of Conduct. Sanctions may be classified as minor, intermediate, or severe. Sanctions need not be progressive. For example, a severe first offense may warrant a severe sanction, even if the student has not received any prior sanctions. All sanctions will be issued in writing and will become an official part of the student’s college record, maintained by Student Affairs for seven years and in accordance with ICCB Administrative Code 23 Ill. Adm. Code §1501.116, which governs the use, security, and confidentiality of student data.
Minor sanctions may be imposed by any college personnel without a formal investigation or hearing. These outcomes are not appealable by students, but all minor sanctions imposed must be issued in writing and submitted electronically to the Assistant Provost for Student Affairs. Possible minor sanctions for violations of the Student Code of Conduct include:
Intermediate sanctions may be imposed by Directors, Deans, Assistant Provosts, the Provost, the President, or Student Complaint and Conduct Committee. Additionally, instructors may impose the intermediate sanctions of course failure or course withdrawal with the signature approval of their respective Dean. Intermediate sanctions are appealable to the Assistant Provosts, Student Complaint and Conduct Committee, or the College President. Possible intermediate sanctions include:
Severe sanctions may be recommended to the Provost by the Student Complaint and Conduct Committee and may only be imposed by the Provost or President. Severe sanctions may only be appealed to the College President.
More than one of the sanctions listed above may be imposed for any single violation.
Students who accumulate multiple sanctions during their enrollment at JALC may be subject to additional penalties. Also, students with three or more minor-level sanctions within an academic year must meet with the Assistant Provost of Student Affairs for a formal review and final warning. Further misconduct, even if minor, may result in suspension. Suspension length will be determined by the Student Complaint and Conduct Committee and approved by the Provost.
The Student Conduct Process is designed to provide a fair, transparent, and educational approach to resolving alleged violations of College policies and standards. The process ensures that students are treated with respect and provided with the opportunity to be heard, while also upholding the integrity of the academic and campus community. The five steps in the Student Conduct Process are described below.
The student conduct process begins when the College becomes aware of a possible violation of the Student Code of Conduct. Any College personnel, student, or community member may report alleged misconduct involving a student. All reports must be submitted in writing to the Assisant Provost of Students Affairs using the College’s Report a Concern Form as soon as possible following the behavior in question. The College’s response to the reported behavior follows one of three paths:
If the potential violation is not addressed during Step 1, the notification will be reviewed by the Assistant Provost for Student Affairs (or designee) to determine whether an investigation is warranted. The guiding criterion is whether the reported conduct, if true, would constitute a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. If so, the process proceeds to Step 3. If not, the Assistant Provost for Student Affairs (or designee) will dismiss the allegation, and the matter will be considered resolved.
If an investigation is warranted, the student will be notified through their college-issued Volmail account. The notification will include:
The Assistant Provost for Student Affairs will conduct a prompt and thorough investigation of the circumstances or designate the Assistant Provost of Academic Affairs, a Dean, or a Director to conduct the investigation. The initial investigation may include:
After completing the investigation, the Assistant Provost for Student Affairs (or designee) will determine whether the matter is appropriate for Informal Resolution or a Formal Conduct Hearing based on the nature and severity of the alleged violation, the student’s conduct history, and other relevant factors.
Within 10 business days of the date the student receives the notification of alleged violation(s), the student will be notified of:
The process will proceed with Step 6 for Informal Resolution or Step 7 for a Formal Conduct Hearing.
Informal Resolution is a less formal process handled by the Assistant Provost for Student Affairs (or designee), typically used for lower-level or first-time violations. It is designed to resolve concerns without a formal hearing and focuses on promoting learning, accountability, and behavioral improvement. After reviewing the incident and meeting with the student and any relevant stakeholders, the Assistant Provost (or designee) makes a final determination regarding responsibility and assigns appropriate sanctions or outcomes.
Formal Conduct Hearings are a more structured process led by the Student Complaint and Conduct Committee, typically used for serious or repeat violations. The Student Complaint and Conduct Committee is an ad hoc committee chaired by the Provost (or designee) and includes the Provost, either the Assistant Provost for Student Affairs or the Assistant Provost for Academic Affairs, one Academic Dean, and one Director from the Student Affairs Division. Faculty members may be added when the case involves alleged academic misconduct.
Within ten (10) business days of receiving a formal request for a conduct hearing by the initial investigator, the Chair will convene the committee to review the available evidence, consider any prior resolutions, determine whether immediate interim measures are necessary, and schedule the hearing.
During the hearing, the student respondent will have the opportunity to present relevant information, respond to the allegations, and provide context regarding the incident(s). The committee may also hear from witnesses or college personnel who can offer additional information. Following the hearing, the committee will deliberate and issue a finding regarding responsibility, along with any applicable sanctions.
While the student conduct process is different than criminal or civil proceedings, the following rights are provided to students, along with the expectation that students fulfill their responsibilities in the process. Students or others who fail to respect the rights of others or the process may be excused from a meeting or proceeding, and the process will continue in their absence.
| Student Rights | Student Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| To be provided with the opportunity to review materials, information, and relevant case information in a timely fashion | To follow the processes (including deadlines) to request such a review |
| To be provided with an opportunity to be heard through the appropriate student conduct process | To follow the process as outlined by the College, as failure to do so may waive any right to an appeal |
| To be free from compulsory self-incrimination regarding behaviors that may also be the subject of criminal charges, and that the decision not to share information does not create a presumption of responsibility | To understand that, if the student chooses not to participate, the student conduct process will still proceed; a determination of responsibility and any sanctions will be made based on the available information |
| To have an advisor of choice present to support/offer advice in any formal student hearing or meeting | To notify the College if an advisor will be present, and to understand that if the advisor does not comply with the College’s expectations, they will be asked to leave the hearing or meeting, which will continue without the advisor’s presence |
| To contact and present witnesses to the incident(s) being investigated or reviewed | To present only those witnesses who have relevant information about the incident/behavior in question within the guidelines presented by the College |
| To have educational records related to the conduct process maintained as confidential except as otherwise required by law or permitted by College policy, to have all conduct processes and meetings be closed, and to inspect and review student conduct records | To understand the recordkeeping policies and that any information related to other students will be redacted from any records that are released, unless otherwise required by law |
| To have the information reviewed by an unbiased Student Complaint and Conduct Committee who will use the preponderance of the evidence standard of proof | To understand that the conduct process is designed to be educational, not adversarial, and that it is different than a court proceeding |
| To request a review of the final resolution by the College President | To submit the request following established procedures |
Within 10 business days of the start of informal resolution (the date the student is notified that the matter will be addressed informally) or the conduct hearing, the student will receive a written summary of the outcome.If the student is found responsible for a violation, the notice will include:
Sanctions may range from a warning to suspension or expulsion, depending on the nature and severity of the violation. All sanctions will be issued in writing and will become an official part of the student’s college record, maintained by Student Affairs for seven years and in accordance with ICCB Administrative Code 23 Ill. Adm. Code §1501.116, which governs the use, security, and confidentiality of student data.
Students may appeal intermediate or severe sanctions imposed by College personnel by submitting a Student Code of Conduct Sanction Appeal. Appeals must be received within 10 business days from the date of the decision letter. The appeal review process depends on the level of the sanction imposed and follows the procedures outlined below:
After a minimum separation of one year from the date of expulsion, a student may request reinstatement by submitting a written petition to the College President or their designee. The decision of the President (or designee) is final and not subject to further appeal. Students interested in pursuing reinstatement are encouraged to contact the Assistant Provost for Student Affairs for information about the petition process and required documentation.
Some student groups and programs maintain additional behavioral expectations beyond those outlined in the general Student Code of Conduct. These supplemental standards may be set by athletic teams, student clubs and organizations, academic departments, or other specialized programs through their own handbooks, codes of conduct, or governing documents. Coaches, club advisors, and program leaders have the authority to establish these expectations as part of their roles.
Students involved in such groups are responsible for understanding and following these additional requirements. Violations may result in consequences within the group or program and shall also be referred to the College’s conduct process, if the observed behaviors also violate the general Student Code of Conduct. Coaches, club advisors, and program leaders are responsible for ensuring that additional requirements align with College policies and are clearly communicated and accessible to students.
This section outlines the external laws, institutional policies, and governing procedures that inform and support the Student Code of Conduct. These references ensure that the Code aligns with federal and state regulations, accrediting standards, and college-wide policies, providing a consistent and lawful framework for student rights, responsibilities, and disciplinary processes.
| 20 U.S.C. § 1232g | Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) |
| 42 U.S.C. § 12101 | Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) |
| 29 U.S.C. § 794 | Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act |
| 20 U.S.C. § 1681–1688 | Title IX of the Education Amendments |
| 18 U.S.C. § 922(q) | Gun-Free School Zones Act |
| 5 U.S.C. § 2302(b)(8) | Federal Whistleblower Protection Act |
| 775 ILCS 5/ | Illinois Human Rights Act |
| 110 ILCS 27/ | Dual Credit Quality Act |
| 110 ILCS 66/ | Student Debt Assistance Act |
| 430 ILCS 66/1 et seq. | Firearm Concealed Carry Act |
| 720 ILCS 5/21-6 | Illinois Criminal Code |
| 5 ILCS 140/ | Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) |
| 110 ILCS 805/ | Illinois Public Community College Act |
| 23 Ill. Adm. Code § 1501.507(b)(11) | ICCB Rules on Dual Credit |
| 23 Ill. Adm. Code § 1501.204 | Student Handbook Requirements |
| ICCB System Rules Manual (July 2024) | General ICCB Governance |
| Board Policy 8310 | Student Guidebook |
| Administrative Procedure 826 | Student Code of Conduct |
| Administrative Procedure 827 | Student Disciplinary Action |
| Administrative Procedure 831 | Student Complaints |
| Administrative Procedure 414 A–D | Sexual Misconduct Procedures |
| Board Policy 4320 | Sexual Misconduct Policy |
| Board Policy 3373 | Weapons and Firearms Policy |
| Administrative Procedure 828 | Student Rights and Responsibilities |
| Administrative Procedure 806 | Dual Credit and Early College |
| Administrative Procedure 818 | FOIA Compliance |
| Administrative Procedure 807 | Disabled Students |